World Health Day 2009
Save lives. Make hospitals safe in emergencies
World Health Day 2009 focuses on the safety of health facilities and the readiness of health workers who treat those affected by emergencies. Health centres and staff are critical lifelines for vulnerable people in disasters - treating injuries, preventing illnesses and caring for people's health needs. Often, already fragile health systems are unable to keep functioning through a disaster, with immediate and future public health consequences.
This year, WHO and international partners are underscoring the importance of investing in health infrastructure that can withstand hazards and serve people in immediate need. They are also urging health facilities to implement systems to respond to internal emergencies, such as fires, and ensure the continuity of care.
News
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News release: call to protect hospitals, schools from impact of disasters
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Event in Beijing: remarks by Dr Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General
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News release: focus on making hospitals safe in emergencies
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News release: Jet Li appointed Goodwill Ambassador
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Message from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
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Statement by UNICEF Executive Director Ann M. Veneman
Background
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Emergencies: global and local impact
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How emergencies threaten health facilities and delivery of care
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Why keep health facilities safe?
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How to safeguard health facilities
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What can you do?
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Global efforts to make hospitals safe from disasters
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Making hospitals safe in emergencies: country examples
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Statement by WHO Director-General Dr Margaret Chan
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More information resources
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